Delicious Fare Knows No Boundary at Anytime Cafe

April 20, 2014

Story By: Michelle Lee | Photos by: Tony Grillo

When Ken and Cindy Wong, owners of Anytime Cafe, first opened shop a little more than four years ago, their unique menu concept took many by surprise. “To us, it made a lot of sense,” says Cindy, referring to the eatery’s mix of Chinese, Italian and local-style dishes. “Since Hawaii embraces so many different cultures, we wanted our dishes to do the same.”

Offering everything from hand-tossed pasta to homemade dumplings, Anytime Cafe in Market City Shopping Center appeals to all appetites. “Our family comes from a long history of restaurateurs, so the common denominator is that we pair high quality ingredients with cooking techniques that have withstood the test of time,” explains Cindy.

Paying homage to the Wongs’ Hong Kong roots, Shrimp Wonton Noodle in Broth ($8.95) is a popular choice. “People say we have the best wonton soup on the island, because we slow cook our broth overnight with pork bone, dried shrimp and herbs to really bring out the flavor,” says Cindy. “Our wonton dumplings are handmade each day and stuffed with generous pieces of shrimp and pork.”

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Shrimp Wonton Noodle in Broth ($8.95)

Fresh Clam Spaghettini with White Wine Sauce ($11.95)

Mochi Waffle with Fresh Fruit ($8.95)

Pork Chop Risotto ($13.95)

For succulent noodles and fresh seafood of another kind, the restaurant’s Fresh Clams Spaghettini with White Wine Sauce ($11.95) is a must-try. “We make our homemade white wine sauce using garlic and the clams’ natural juices. Everything is locally sourced to ensure freshness.”

In addition to Chinese noodles and Italian pasta, Pork Chop Risotto ($13.95) is a crowd favorite, praised for its aromatic seasoning from pan-frying thick cuts of marinated pork chop in a medley of diced bell peppers, onions and mushrooms. “With risotto, the type of rice you use is so important,” states Cindy. “So we use rice that is imported from Italy because it soaks up the spices better than anything else.”

Along with its regular menu, Anytime Cafe offers an array of unique treats including Mochi Waffle with Fresh Fruit ($8.95), which is part of the restaurant’s special breakfast menu available weekends from 8 a.m. to noon. “Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, it’s the perfect sweet breakfast,” exclaims Cindy.

Anytime Cafe also invites customers to try its Lunch Special ($10.95, offered daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) featuring a variety of menu classics served with a choice of soup or salad.